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Bill

HB 2371

Requires MO HealthNet and health benefit plans providing for maternity benefits to cover a home blood pressure monitoring device for pregnant and postpartum women

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Tara Peters

Requires Missouri Medicaid and health insurers to cover home blood pressure monitors for pregnant and postpartum women to prevent pregnancy-related hypertension complications.

HCS Reported Do Pass (H) - AYES: 16 NOES: 0 PRESENT: 0
#healthcare #insurance-health #medicaid/mohealthnet
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Bill Summary · HB 2371

Legislative bill overview

HB 2371 mandates that MO HealthNet (Missouri's Medicaid program) and private health benefit plans covering maternity benefits must provide home blood pressure monitoring devices to pregnant and postpartum women. The bill addresses cardiovascular complications during and after pregnancy by ensuring access to monitoring technology without out-of-pocket costs.

Why is this important

Pregnancy-related hypertension and preeclampsia are leading causes of maternal mortality and morbidity in the United States. Home blood pressure monitoring enables early detection of dangerous conditions, allowing for timely medical intervention. The requirement expands preventive care access for a vulnerable population during a medically critical period.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Health insurers and MO HealthNet may argue the mandate increases premiums or administrative costs, potentially raising healthcare expenses for all enrollees
  • Device specifications and duration: The bill does not specify which devices qualify, battery/replacement costs, or how long coverage extends postpartum, creating implementation ambiguity
  • Medical necessity debate: Some argue such monitoring should be clinically prescribed rather than universally provided, questioning whether all pregnant women need devices or only high-risk patients

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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